Updated: January 20, 2026
Greece › Santorini › Kid-Friendly Hotels
By Santorini Dave • dave@santorinidave.com
Two beachfront pools at Sea Breeze – the best beach hotel for families in Santorini (but admittedly, a little isolated).
Santorini Family Hotels – My Tips
My son and I in the small pool at Merovigliosso Apartments in Imerovigli.
- Best Towns for Families:
• Fira: The bustling capital. Best for older kids/teens who want shopping and activity. The hub for all buses.
• Oia: The most famous and scenic village. It has the best marble-paved walkways (relatively stroller-friendly compared to others) but is very crowded at sunset.
• Kamari & Perissa: The beach towns. These are flat, walkable, and stroller-friendly. You lose the caldera view, but you gain beach access and lower prices.- My Top Family Hotels:
• Luxury (Oia): Andronis Arcadia. Located just outside the pedestrian crush of Oia. It features one of the largest pools in Oia, a kids’ club (rare!), and huge suites.
• Luxury (Imerovigli): Andronis Concept Wellness Resort. A spectacular wellness resort that actually caters to kids with cooking classes, yoga for children, and family-sized pools.
• Luxury (Fira): Aria Suites. A boutique hotel that feels private but is steps from the shops. The “Villas” are separate from the main suites and offer private jacuzzis.
• Best Beach Resort: Sea Breeze Beach Resort (Exomitis). A true 5-star resort on the sand with a massive pool, spa, and villa-style rooms.- Best Value & Midrange Options:
• Merovigliosso Apartments (Imerovigli): Simple, clean, and has a small pool. A great base for exploring.
• San Giorgio Villas (Fira): Unbeatable budget location in the center of town.- The “Caldera Safety” Warning: Many hotels on the caldera cliffside (Fira, Oia, Imerovigli) have strict “Adults Only” policies or age restrictions (e.g., 13+). This is for safety – the drop-offs are steep and walls are low. Always verify the hotel accepts young children before booking.
- Beaches are Volcanic (Hot Sand): Santorini’s beaches are made of black volcanic pebbles and sand. They get extremely hot in the sun. Water shoes are essential for kids, or they will burn their feet. The water gets deep quickly, so keep an eye on weak swimmers.
- Best Villa Splurge: Oia Mansion. This is a historic sea-captain’s house in the heart of Oia. It sleeps 8 people, has a massive private terrace with the famous sunset view, and a hot tub.
Enjoying a private plunge pool during our stay at Aria Suites & Villas in Fira.
The 31 Best Hotels for Families in Santorini
1. Aria Suites & Villas – Fira
Great location a short walk from central Fira but down a quiet lane away from the crowds. Nice pool and views of the caldera. The Carmen and Norma Suites have two bedrooms and comfortably sleep a family of four or five. The Fidelio Villa is the largest onsite with two bedrooms (one is a loft) and two sofa beds, for a family of six; villas add private heated plunge pools and are located a short walk from the hotel and main pool.2. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort – Imerovigli
Family-centric luxury hotel offering spacious suites and villas, all with private heated plunge pools, plus three larger shared pools (two are heated). Family perks include kids’ yoga and spa treatments, tennis, cooking classes, and kids’ amenities in the suites and at the pool. The restaurant menu is overseen by a nutritionist and offers healthy, delicious options all day with many ingredients grown on site.3. Sea Breeze Beach Resort – Exomitis, near Perivolos
Five-star yet fun for kids, Sea Breeze is a charming boutique resort set on a nearly private, fully-serviced beach with two children’s pools (and two for adults), kids menus in the restaurant, and babysitting on request. All rooms, suites, and duplexes include an outdoor jacuzzi or heated, jetted pool, private terraces or patios, walk-in showers, and thoughtful extras like complimentary water shoes for the beach. Gourmet but unfussy dining is on offer at the hotel’s poolside restaurant, snack bar, and lounge; breakfast is always included in the room rate. Set at the southernmost tip of the island, this area is best reached by rental car.4. Athina Luxury Suites – Fira
One of only a handful of family-friendly hotels on the caldera’s edge, Athina boasts sunset views over the volcanoes and an excellent location just steps from the island’s best restaurants and attractions. This boutique hotel offers babysitting service and has several suites large enough to sleep families of four to six. The infinity pool overlooks the caldera and boasts a new swim-up bar. Excellent restaurant, attention to detail, and friendly owners and staff.5. Andronis Arcadia – Oia
Luxurious hotel with family-sized suites and enormous villas for up to 12 guests, all boasting private, heated pools and sunset sea views (not the caldera). The largest villa has six bedrooms and two private pools. Facilities and amenities include a sea view infinity pool, kids club, two restaurants, and free daily yoga, hikes, and personal training. A bit removed from the center of Oia (can be a plus and a minus), walking distance to dining and sights, but removed from the busy core and quiet at night.6. Domes Novos – Tholos, near Oia
Polished hotel with a kids’ club for ages four to twelve, a kids’ pool, and an ever-changing roster of activities, including treasure hunting, cooking lessons, crafting, painting, organic gardening, and more. All rooms, suites, and villas feature private terraces with heated, private pools. Family Rooms sleep up to five guests with two king beds and a sofabed. Villas have two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, two king beds, a sofabed, a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, and a dining room. Facilities include a heated main pool with Aegean Sea views (not the caldera), an all-day Greek-Peloponnese restaurant, a complimentary breakfast buffet, a luxe spa, and 24-hour gym. Twice a day, the hotel offers a free shuttle to Oia (only one kilometer away, but it’s an uphill hike with no sidewalk). Bookings include free valet parking if you prefer to drive yourself.7. Noūs Santorini – Mesaria
Sprawling, luxury resort spreading out over 45 acres and boasting the largest pool on the island, which takes up a whole acre on its own. A second, heated, indoor/outdoor pool is in the wellness center. Restaurants on site offer Mediterannean comfort food, casual favorites, while the Vitamin Bar serves only organic, unprocessed small plates and juices. Suites and bungalows boast private, heated swimming pools; all rooms types offer one king or two twin beds, walk-in showers, and private terraces. 16 rooms have connecting options to become eight family suites. Its smooth design with plenty of ramps and elevators make it easy to get around with a stroller. Central location in the interior village, Mesaria, just a short walk to a handful of great restaurants and an easy bus or taxi to the caldera in Fira or the beaches at Kamari, Perissa, and Vlychada.8. Astra Suites – Imerovigli
One of the best luxury hotels on Santorini, with a beautiful pool and incredible sunset caldera views. The hotel is mostly adults-only, though older children are allowed in The Family Suite and the Astra Private Villa (500 meters from the main hotel). Both the suite and the villa offer two bedrooms, two bathrooms, fully equipped kitchenettes, and private outdoor jacuzzis; the Astra Private Villa has its own pool.9. Aeifos Boutique Hotel – Imerovigli
Stroller-friendly (and wheelchair-friendly) hotel on the caldera with an elevator and ramps – very rare in Imerovigli, the highest village on the caldera. Aeifos sits at the top of the caldera, so guests can reach the main pedestrian street, shops, and dining without climbing stairs. Rooms and suites sleep up to four guests on one queen bed plus a sofabed, two twins, or a second queen bed. Connecting rooms are available. All but one room have balconies, many with private pools, jacuzzis, or access to a shared pool. The main infinity pool overlooks the caldera. The restaurant serves crowd-pleasing, Mediterranean comfort food. Breakfast is complimentary either in the restaurant or served straight to your room. Pet-friendly, too.10. Celestia Grand – Mesaria
Luxurious villa collection, each unit with kitchenettes, spacious terraces, private heated pools, and sunset caldera views. All villas have indoor jacuzzi tubs, some add outdoor hot tubs, the largest have two bedrooms and two floors. Perks include airport and port transfer, an all-day shuttle to Fira, and daily breakfast delivery.11. Tholos Resort – Imerovigli
All-suite hotel in the caldera with a pool, gorgeous sunset views, a creative Mediterranean restaurant, and a la carte breakfast delivered daily to each suite. One and two-bedroom suites and the villa accommodate four to five guests, with kitchenettes and private, outdoor jacuzzis; the villa adds an indoor swimming pool. Located in Imerovigli near Skaros Rock and outstanding restaurants.12. Canaves Epitome – Oia
For ages six and older (though this policy is somewhat flexible). This all-suite and villa hotel features a sea-view infinity pool, two modern Greek and Mediterranean restaurants, and champagne breakfast. One and two-bedroom villas sleep families of three to five, all with private, heated pools and terraces with sunrise and sunset sea views (not of the caldera). Excellent location in Oia, walking distance to dining, shopping, and attractions, yet still very quiet.13. Rocabella Santorini – Imerovigli
Dreamy hotel on the caldera with three pools (one heated), a Mediterranean restaurant, and a spa. Rooms, lofts, and suites sleep families of four to six, most with private, heated pools or jacuzzis on their terraces. Family perks include kids menus in the restaurant, all-day room service, and babysitting. Rocabella sits in a quiet location north of Imerovigli village; a free shuttle to Fira is offered from June through September.14. Bellonias Villas – Kamari Beach
Beachfront boutique hotel with a pool, jacuzzi, and beach club. Apartment Suites are best for families, sleeping up to five with a separate bedroom, kitchenette, and private terrace. Construction is mostly flat and easy to navigate with a stroller. The hotel’s beach area is next to the lifeguard stand, and the beach club offers free SUP for guests. Near several good restaurants, the boat to Perissa Beach, and the outdoor movie theater.15. Santorini Kastelli Resort – Kamari Beach
Luxury resort with seven pools (four for all guests and three semi-private), a holistic spa, vineyard, and fitness center. Their Suites sleep up to four guests and can be one-bedroom or loft style with a queen-sized bed and two single-sized sofa beds in the living area. Located in Kamari, less than 500 meters from the beach and a short walk to the open-air cinema.16. Windmill Villas – Imerovigli
Whimsical collection of three private villas built as traditional, Cycladic windmills in a lush garden setting filled with local trees, herbs, and fruits. Each two-story, two-bedroom, two-bathroom villa has a full kitchen, patio, outdoor dining table, a private pool, and its own private parking spot. Baby cots, high chairs, and babysitting service are available on request. Kids will find a playground and open-air cinema on site. Breakfast is complimentary and delivered to each villa daily at your time of choice between 8:00 and 11:00. The villas are located on the back side of Imerovigli village near Pori Beach. A car is handy to have for stays in this area.17. Elysian Santorini – Finikia
Spacious one and two-bedroom luxury villas, each with a private pool or jacuzzi and sunset views over the Aegean Sea (not the caldera). The hotel is designed like a village, with winding paths and gardens between the buildings, plus one of the largest infinity pools on the island. The location in the traditional village of Finikia is incredibly peaceful: removed from the crowds, yet still accessible to the caldera sunsets, fine dining, and shopping of Oia.18. Tsitouras Collection – Firostefani
Small, luxury hotel with an infinity pool, complimentary a la carte breakfasts, and fewer stairs than neighboring properties. Spacious one and two-bedroom suites sleep up to five guests; the three-bedroom villa sleeps six with a full kitchen and a private pool. Great food and drinks are available all day, made with careful consideration of special diets or food allergies. Located a five-minute walk to the Firostefani bus stop and great restaurants.19. Aqua Blue Hotel – Perissa Beach
Beachfront hotel with two pools and a kids’ pool, a serviced beach area, and a Mediterranean restaurant. A few room types sleep up to four, but the Maisonettes (lofts) are best, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette. Aqua Blue is one of only a handful of wheelchair-accessible hotels in Santorini, and the staff is super helpful and ready to assist. Convenient location on Perissa Beach with many places to eat and drink within a short walk.20. Galaxy Suites – Imerovigli
Luxury boutique hotel with two pools, a fantastic restaurant, and direct sunset caldera views throughout the property. The hotel offers two spacious villas for up to six guests, each with 150 sqm of living space, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a private pool, and indoor jacuzzi. Its restaurant and pool club are among the very best in Santorini.21. Vedema Resort – Megalochori
Family-friendly, five-star resort with spacious suites, a fantastic restaurant, and a pool in the heart of Santorini’s wine country. Vedema Resort offers one and two-bedroom suites and three-bedroom villas interspersed with gardens, which create much more privacy than you’ll find in any caldera hotel. Located within the traditional village Megalochori, there are several restaurants and wine-tasting rooms nearby, plus Vedema offers free transportation to Fira and Perivolos Beach.22. Dreams Luxury Suites – Imerovigli
Cheery boutique hotel with large suites for up to five guests. All suites have kitchenettes, outdoor jacuzzis, and private terraces with expansive caldera views; most have private, heated pools. A la carte, champagne breakfast is served to each suite daily. Located in a quiet area at the south end of Imerovigli, just a ten-minute walk to the heart of the village and a five-minute walk to neighboring Firostefani for more dining options.23. Voreina Gallery Suites – Pyrgos
Family-run, boutique hotel offering nine Cycladic-style suites and one villa, all with private jacuzzis or swimming pools, private terraces, and cozy fireplaces. All but one suite includes a fully-equipped kitchen. Most suites sleep up to three guests, while the Master Suites sleep four and the three-bedroom villa sleeps six. Breakfast is complimentary and delivered directly to each room daily. Excellent location in traditional Pyrgos, the highest village in Santorini, only a five-minute walk to the heart of town. A rental car is needed for exploring the island from here.24. Enigma Suites – Fira
Boutique hotel with an all-day café and just eight suites located on the caldera in the heart of Fira. All suites have a private terrace with caldera sunset views. Junior and Senior Suites sleep up to four guests, while Premier, Exclusive, and Signature Suites sleep five or six guests and include private, outdoor jacuzzis. Superb location, especially for families who prefer not to rent a car. Tons of great restaurants, sights, and museums are in the area, and the bus station is only 250 meters away.25. Strogili – Oia
Charming hotel offering a large pool and sweeping caldera views in a quiet area near the heart of Oia. Cave Houses and Villas offer large private terraces and sleep up to five, while One-Bedroom Villas with Hot Tubs sleep up to four. Located at the east end of Oia, near several cafes and restaurants, about a five-minute walk to the pedestrian-only path and about a ten-minute walk to the heart of the village.26. Tamarix Del Mar Suites – Kamari Beach
Mid-range hotel with a large outdoor pool and attached kids’ pool, a small indoor heated pool in the spa, a playground, and babysitting on request. Almost all suites and apartments sleep four to five guests, though the split levels (maisonettes) are the most spacious and comfortable for families. All units include kitchenettes and a few add private, outdoor jacuzzis. The poolside restaurant offers daily lunch and a complimentary, American breakfast buffet. Just a two-minute walk to Kamari Beach, several restaurants, and beach clubs.27. Anemomilos Hotel Apartments – Oia
The best value hotel for families in Oia. There’s a nice pool with a large deck and sun chairs. Shops and restaurants are a five-minute walk away. There is a one-bedroom suite with hot tub and caldera views. The one-bedroom apartment with sea view (facing away from the caldera) is a great deal if you’re looking for something cheaper.28. Kamares Apartments – Fira
Wonderful, cave-style apartments with kitchenettes, stunning caldera views over the volcano, and large terraces, most with private jacuzzis. The Deluxe Apartment is the largest, sleeping up to four guests. A complimentary, a la carte breakfast is served to each apartment daily. Located in a quiet corner of Fira, yet only a five-minute walk from the heart of the village.29. Santellini Hotel – Kamari Beach
Cheerful hotel with a pool just a short walk from family-friendly Kamari Beach, the open air cinema, plenty of dining, and water sports. This mid-range/budget hotel offers five Maisonettes with pool views, each with a queen bed in the loft and two single sofa beds on the main floor. A homemade breakfast buffet is included in the room rate, plus they have an all-day pool bar serving drinks and light meals.30. San Giorgio Villas – Fira
Family-owned, budget hotel with a pool on a quiet side street in Fira, just a five-minute walk to the caldera, dining, attractions, and the bus station. The cheapest hotel with quality family rooms in Fira, San Giorgio offers triple and quadruple rooms, with the deluxe and superior categories recently renovated. For stays of three nights or more, complimentary port or airport transfers are included.31. Merovigliosso Apartments – Imerovigli
The best budget hotel for families in Imerovigli, boasting a great location, a small pool, and partial caldera views. One-bedroom Deluxe and Luxury Apartments sleep up to four with one queen bed and two sofa beds, a jetted bathtub, and kitchenettes. A continental breakfast is delivered daily to each apartment’s private balcony. Just steps from great restaurants and the bus stop.
My Favorite Hotels in Santorini
• Fira: Athina • Aria Suites
• Oia: Katikies • Canaves Suites
• Imerovigli: Grace • Astra
• Firostefani: Tsitouras
• Beach: Istoria
• For Families: Aria
• Best Pool: Nous
• Midrange: Enigma • Kavalari
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
Hi Dave,
Planning my first trip to Greece with my family including three kids ages almost 9, 13, and 16. I am deciding for Santorini between staying at the Aria Suites in the Fidelio villa/suite or the Athina Luxury suites in the Royale suite. The photos of the Royale suite look more “luxury” and the higher price seems to reflect that. Steps are not an issue for us or the kids. Any advice between the two hotels? Thank you!!
Both hotels are 5-star and the service at both is outstanding. Your decision should come down to this:
• Choose Aria Suites if your number one priority is maximum privacy and a quiet villa atmosphere. The swimming pool is located at the hotel which is a short walk from the Fidelio Suite. The pool is a bit more kid-friendly than the trendier vibe at Athina. (The villa has a smaller plunge pool steps from its front door.)
• Choose Athina Luxury Suites if your priority is more space and a modern, “wow-factor” luxury design with a slightly more energetic vibe.
My Advice: For a family of five with three kids, including two teenagers, the extra space and third sleeping area of the Royale Suite at Athina is a significant, practical luxury that will make your stay more comfortable.
Hello Dave,
My family will be traveling to Santorini in August for 2 days. My kids are ages 15, 13 and 9 and we would love at least two bedrooms and two bathrooms and ideally the two teenagers do not want to share a bed. We would love to have an onsite restaurant, plunge pool and gym, if possible. I am trying to decide between Vedema and Anema Boutique Hotel or possibly Cape 9 Villas. Do you have any other suggestions? Thank you!
Your initial thoughts of Vedema, Anema Boutique Hotel & Villas, and Cape 9 Villas & Suites are good starting points. Vedema, being a luxury resort, is well-equipped with amenities and has large suites and villas, and a fantastic pool. For Anema (more boutique, near a so-so beach) and Cape 9 (villa-focused in Akrotiri), you’ll need to verify if their larger units meet all your specific requirements.
Several other high-end properties are worth investigating. Consider Canaves Oia Suites/Epitome in Oia for luxury villas with private pools, Carpe Diem Santorini in Pyrgos for exclusive suites with plunge pools, or Magma Resort Santorini and Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel & Suites, which offer multi-bedroom configurations. Properties like Santorini Princess Presidential Suites have multi-bedroom suites with private pools.
Hi Dave
We are looking for a hotel with a kid club that would occupy and take care of our 6-year child during the day while we go around with my wife. Any suggestions? In case we want to hang out by night, are there hotels proposing a babysitting service?
Thanks
Raoul
There are no kids clubs that I know of on Santorini. Most hotels (certainly the better ones) can arrange babysitting.
Hi Dave, Thank you for all the great info on this blog. I am thinking of going to Santorini, and possible Mykonos, late May/early June with our two children (6 and 8yo). Do you think it is mandatory to rent a car in those 2 islands, or are the bus routes sufficient to just “hop” to another village? I see that you mention quite a lot on some of the hotels recommended in Santorini that they are close to the bus stop – so perhaps a car is not needed? Thank you for your recommendation. Anne
In Mykonos there is less to see (the main places are the beach and Mykonos Town and they’re generally well-connected by bus). In Santorini, there’s much more to see and do. Much of that can be done with tours and bus rides but you’ll definitely see more of the island if you have a rental car, though I wouldn’t say it’s a necessity.
Hi Dave, Great site thanks.
Can you recommend any Windsurfing companies in Naxos? We are specifically looking for board hire.
Thanks, Chris
Good windsurfing companies for board hire are Laguna Beach Park in Stelida, Naxos Kitelife at the north side of Mikri Vigla, and Ride with the Gods at the south side of Mikri Vigla. Rates are similar at all locations, and all require an IKO level check before renting. Naxos Kitelife has a reputation for quality board rentals, but the tightest regulations, with boards only available to use at their designated beach area, only for 2-3 hour sessions, and they charge €20 if you fail their IKO check. Ride with the Gods offers quality boards, more flexibility with use of their rentals, and has board/gear storage available. I think Laguna Beach Park caters more toward beginning windsurfers, but they have excellent gear for rent and great rates on multi-day rentals.
Hi Dave,
I love your site! such great travel advice.
I am staying in Santorini next year in May and have booked Canaves Oia suites for 3 nights. However, when we arrive in Santorini we have 1 night prior to Canaves Oia Suites, that we haven’t booked. My partner and I can’t decide if we should stay in Fira or Imerovigli for our first night prior to going to Canaves Oia Suites. What would you recommend, Imerovigli or Fira?
Fira is the nightlife and shopping hub of Santorini. Imerovigli is much quieter, no nightlife or shopping (beyond a few food markets), and 8 to 10 restaurants. Oia is sort-of a blend of those two places (much busier and more shops than Imerovigli, but not the nightlife, bars, and clubs of Fira). So, if you want more activity and buzz, I recommend Fira. Otherwise, I’d stay in Imerovigli.
Hi Dave,
Your blog is so helpful. We are a family of 7 – 5 children 22,21,18,16 and 7. We will be traveling in Santorini last minute in June, would you recommend VRBO or which hotel for our large group, we are willing to get 2/3 rooms. What are your thoughts on Tholos or El Greco?
Thank you
Tholos is wonderful with great caldera views and an idyllic location in Imerovigli. The pool is small but nice. El Greco is outside of Fira. Walkable to Fira – but it’s a long walk if it’s hot. It feels more like a resort. Not as charming but the pool is much larger and rooms bigger too. VRBO (and Airbnb) are great when they work out. It’s the inconsistency that makes them hard for me to recommend.
Hi Dave,
We are traveling early June with 3 teenage boys. I’ve decided to stay in a hotel after reading your comments on staying at an Airbnb. I’d love some advise on which beach town to choose. The caldera side looks amazing but I’ve been told beach town is better with teens. Also, beach side seems to be better priced. We are not looking to break the bank.
Thanks,
Cathy
Yes, beach towns have cheaper hotels and if the kids like to swim obviously there’s that appeal. (There’s no sea swimming when you stay along the caldera.) Kamari is more of a proper town, closer to the caldera, and has a great open-air cinema. Perissa has nicer sand and a cooler vibe in my opinion.
Hi Dave
We would really appreciate some advice on a great hotel to stay in during our visit to Santorini. We are arriving 2 May and staying for 5 nights. My mum has always wanted to visit Santorini so my sister and I are taking her. We have looked at hotels.com for a hotel with a caldera view, ideally, we are looking for a 1-2 bedroom with at least a queen bed and a double sofa bed. Currently I am holding the Iliovasilema Suites, which is at the top end of our budget. Should we look for hotels in Akrotiri or Pyrgos or is this location a little too remote and we would need a car to get around? Really appreciate your help. Realize we are only a month out from travelling, but hoping your advice will help us make the decision to firm up a reservation with the hotel we are holding or go with your alternative recommendations.
Regards Michelle
Iliovasilema Suites has a great location in Imerovigli. I definitely recommend staying there over some place in Akrotiri or Pyrgos which is away from the main caldera villages and yes, then you would need a rental car. Iliovasilema Suites has wonderful views and you’re just a short walk to some of the island’s best restaurants.
Hi Dave,
I am planning a travel with my wife and almost 20 months old. I am trying to decide between Aria Suites (villa) or Oia Mansion. It looks like villa is pure luxury while mansion is a great location for young kids?
Please let me know.
Thanks
Mike
They are both wonderful places – two of my favorites but fairly different. Oia Mansion is basically a four-bedroom house with a huge private patio on top (and smaller one below by the entrance). It has lots of space inside and out. Crowds gather around Oia Mansion for the sunset (it’s smack in the middle of the prime viewing spot in Oia) but there’s a ton of private space for you and your family (the crowds are around the property but obviously not inside the grounds of Oia Mansion). The villas at Aria Suites are closer to a large hotel suite with a shared deck/patio with the four other villas. All villas have a private jacuzzi but not all are right on the edge (though you’re only steps away). There are large “curtains” that separate the space for each villa but you sort-of walk through those to get in and out of the villa property. There are no crowds immediately around Aria Villas. (So a little less privacy within the property but more privacy from the outside world as compared to Oia Mansion). Both properties have private hot tubs, but neither has a swimming pool right on the property. At Aria Suites it’s a 1 minute walk to the Aria Suites Hotel where there’s a beautiful pool (free to use for villa guests). At Oia Mansion it’s a 3 minute walk to Lioyerma cafe and pool bar with an equally nice pool (free after you buy drinks and food). Both places have great restaurants and a few small markets within a 3 to 5 minute walk.
Hi, amazed to see the amount of quality information on this blog. Me and my 6 year daughter planning to spend 4-5 days in Santorini during October half term, this year. Will the weather be ok? Don’t need a large room, as it’s just 2 of us, would love a private pool and a view, where they would allow kids, Fira sounds like a great place, as is close to restaurants etc.
Any recommendations?
Aria Suites is the most family-friendly hotel with both pool and caldera views in Fira. Weather in early October should be warm and beautiful but not hot.
Hi there,
We are travelling to Santorini with two boys aged 11 and 14 in July. I can book the Princess Spa hotel now or wait until August to see if the Aria or Astra Suites have availability. How do these hotels compare?
Many thanks,
Nicole
If you can cancel for free then book Princess Spa now and keep an eye open for Aria and Astra. The big difference between the 3 is location. The Princess Spa is on a stretch of caldera with little around it (about a 20 minute walk to Imerovigli). Astra is in the sleepy town of Imerovigli (a handful of great restaurants but few shops or shopping). Aria is in Fira (lively with lots of shopping). The boys would probably prefer Fira.
Hi David, I am planning a late trip to Greeks isles late June/early July for 8 nights with my wife and 2 kids (9 and 7).. we are looking at Santorini for 2 nights and Mykonos for 6 nights. We have booked Aria Suites in Santorini and looking at Saint John in Mykonos. The hotels in Platos Gialos which you seem to recommend are heavily booked and/or very expensive now.
Would you recommend staying in Saint John which seems to have private beach and good facilities for kids ? We want to be close to beach and have quality rooms/facilities
Aria Suites is wonderful for a family, so good choice. Saint John Resort in Mykonos is very nice but not without some caveats: beach is small and not nearly as nice as Ornos or Platys Gialos beach, some tavernas nearby but not a lot of choice, a little isolated from the other beaches and Mykonos Town, most rooms are several levels above the beach so you’re not walking out your room and straight into the water. Renting a car makes seeing the rest of the island much easier if staying out here.
Thank you for the route recommendation! That’s very helpful. We originally weren’t going to do an actual stop in Rome but with your recommended itinerary we now plan on buying a multi city trip with a LAX to Athens then a Rome to LAX and buy a separate one way trip from Santorini to Rome with the last part of our trip being a 3 day Rome trip. Would you recommend against that? With that added itinerary, would you recommend splitting Naxos and Santorini and just doing a day trip to Mykonos or is Mykonos worth a 3 day trip. Also, do you recommend doing 3 nights in Fira and 2 in Oia if we want to stay there for longer or do you think moving around would be too much with our 5 year old. Lastly, what are your thoughts on the Anteliz Suites in Fira. I didn’t see them on your site but maybe I missed it. Thanks so much!
Apple
A stop in Rome sounds great. And splitting time between Fira and Oia is also a good idea. Anteliz Suites are very nice. Two caveats: lots of walk-by traffic with people looking into the pool area. And not actually located in Fira. It’s up a steep hill from Fira on the footpath’s route to Firostefani. Climbing hills is all part of being in Santorini but be prepared for a pretty good climb every time you return to your hotel from the shops and restaurants of Fira.
Hi there, your site is amazing! Thank you for putting in the time to support all of us with such knowledgeable content! My significant other and I are planning our first Greece trip with our 5 year old daughter. She is pretty socially mature and vacations well. We are planning on being there for 13 days (potentially 15) and wanted to know your opinion on how many days should we spend in the different areas. We like to do a combination of spending time at the beach/pool, relaxing, some sightseeing and eating great food. I was thinking of the combo: Athens 2 days, Santorini 4 days, Mykonos 3 days, Naxos 4 days. We are flying in from Los Angeles with a stopover in Rome so not sure if we should spend more time in Athens since we’ll be in a 16 hour flight prior to and not go to Naxos. I also don’t want to feel like we just keep moving around. Wondering what your thoughts are on Crete and if it is better to see than Mykonos or Naxos. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks so much!!!
Apple
I think that’s a perfect itinerary – a good mix and not too much moving about. Adding Crete would change your plans a lot and probably not worth the effort (not that Crete isn’t wonderful, it is, but so are Naxos and Mykonos and they’re much easier to get to given your route). Not sure if you’ve booked all your travel yet but I would recommend doing something like:
-fly Rome to Athens
-ferry Athens to Mykonos
-ferry Mykonos to Naxos
-ferry Naxos to Santorini
-fly Santorini to Rome
Or could do in the opposite direction as well.
Santorini Dave,
I posted a comment on your other blog, but maybe this is a more appropriate spot, given we are traveling as a family…Hello! My husband and I are traveling in late September – early October with our 4 young children (age 8, 6, 4, 1) to celebrate my 40th birthday. We are considering one night Athens, 3-6 days in Naxos, 3 nights Santorini, 5-7 nights Crete. Is this itinerary advisable?
Also, in Santorini, we plan to splurge on Katikies or Perivolas if either is available. It’s a big splurge. Do you recommend one over the other for young kids? Are there restrictions you know of? I have always wanted to stay at one of these two hotels. Any other insights or recommendations in Oia that we should strongly consider, and that would be comparable to these two?
Also adding after some reasearch…I notice Perivolas (which we are leaning toward) is glaringly missing from your list. On their room descriptions, it says, “Children are not encouraged.” Every room says it. This is a big birthday for me, I have always wanted to stay at one of these two hotels. It is late in the season and they appear to still have pretty open availability at this time. Think they will be ok with our crew?
Neither Katikies or Perivolas will allow young kids. With an email you might get away with 10 or 12 year olds, but there’s no way you’ll get accepted with a 4 and 1 year old. Astra and Aria Suites are the most luxurious hotels with caldera views that allow children.
Are there baby diapers available for purchase on Santorini?
Yes. The grocery store in Fira (as you head south out of town) has the most baby supplies. Here’s what they have in the way of diapers.
I am planning a 4 night trip to Santorini. After reading your blog, i got interested on Aria Suites, but when I checked availability, it was already full for June. Me and my husband and our 7 year old daughter are going in this trip. Our choice is Aressana. Is this a good hotel?
Aressana is very nice but does not have any caldera view. If you’re not committed to a view hotel then El Greco is more kid-friendly than Aressana. The tradeoff is that it’s a 10 minute walk outside of Fira whereas Aressana is right in heart of the town. I personally, would go with Aressana but it is a bit more boutiquish.
Hi
Your blog is great and extremely informative.
My husband and I along with our 3 year old will be in Santorini in May first week.
With a kid, I’m quite confused about my choice of hotels.
After reading your reply in Q&A I found Strogili in Oia quite good. Is the location and resort convenient with a kid?
My other options were:
Aressana Resorts and Suites in Fira.
Agali Houses.
I liked Astra Suites too, but would prefer a place where I spend Eur 700 for 3 nights.
Can you please guide or suggest any other options.
Deepa
Of the 3 hotels you’re looking at Strogili and Agali are the most kid-friendly (Astra is great too, but yes it’s more expensive). With Strogili you’re a little outside of Oia. It’s a nice walk from the hotel to the shops and restaurants but at one point you have to walk along a busy-ish road for 90 seconds. Not a deal breaker but it is a bit of a hassle. With Agali you’ll have lots of stairs to climb each time you leave the hotel.
We will be traveling to Santorini in July this year for 3 nights. We are 2 adults and 3 children, ages 7,9,11.
We would like a caldera view and a pool. What do you recommend?
Tina
Great choices: Strogili in Oia (apartment is short walk from pool), Tholos in Imerovigli (villa is expensive but you get your own private plunge pool), and Aria Suites in Fira (large suites but not right on the edge of the caldera – back a little but still has views).
Hello
We are planning a 3 week trip to England for a family member’s wedding from the US in July. We will have our 6 month old with us and this will be our first vacation as parents. I’ve always wanted to go to Santorini and would love to spend 5 or 6 nights in Greece. I like the Astra Suites and would definitely book there for Santorini. Instead of staying in Santorini the entire time, I think it would be nice to go to a beach, baby friendly, luxury hotel. Where would you suggest that would be easy to get to? We really love luxury and good food!
Thanks!
Kecia
Astra is wonderful so good choice. For a beach hotel do the Ios Palace Hotel on Mylopotas beach in Ios – easy to get to from Santorini (short ferry ride), beautiful beach, pools, and good restaurants both near the beach and a short bus ride away in the Chora.
Hello. Question, I’m planning a trip to Santorini in early June. It will be myself, husband, and 11 month old. I am in love with the view of Oia village (you know the white and blue domes)! Anyway, I’m trying to find a luxury hotel in oia with an infinity pool and great view of Oia village, but am having trouble finding a place that allows infants. Any advice would be much appreciated. I could spend up to 250 euro a night, maybe 300 euro if it’s perfect!
There are not a lot of infinity pools in Oia, few that allow kids, and none that are less than 300 euro. The closest you’ll get is Strogili and Delfini Villas – both very nice but not exactly what you’re looking for.
Hi – love your blog. I have a six and a four yr old and we’re looking to go to at the end of June beginning of July from Amsterdam. We’re open to any islands however I would like luxury accommodations that are kid friendly. Can you give me a recommendation on which islands would be best for us and what hotels?
Jessica
The best luxury hotels for families on the Greek islands are the Nissaki Beach in Naxos, Ios Palace on Ios, the Astra and Aria Suites on Santorini, and the Petinos Beach Resort on Mykonos. All have large suites, nice pools, and great locations.
Just want to thank you for your information. All the comments have really helped us plan our trip and book the hotels! Travelling with 2 year old, can’t wait to see Santorini!
Emily
Hi, your blog and tips are great! Thank you. This is our first time to Greece and we have two teenage kids. We’ve heard Greece is great with teens because of history and plenty of down time/beach time. We were thinking of a few days in Santorini to relax. We were looking at Oia in Santorini – but are there hotels or apartments that are both walking distance to the town and the beach? Any recommendations?
Also, any thoughts on this 10 day itinerary: 2 or 3 days in Athens, rest of time in Santorini for a little culture and plenty of relaxing OR would you recommend one other island for relaxing in addition to Santorini? Thanks!
Jennifer
Oia is not close to the beach (it’s a 20/30 minute drive to the main beach resorts) so no, there are no hotels walking distance to both town and the beach. Oia is walking distance to a great swimming spot just beyond Amoudi Bay but this is jumping off rocks and paths into the ocean, not a beach.
For 10 days in Greece I would recommend 1 or 2 days in Athens, 4/5 days in Naxos (great beaches), and 4 days in Santorini.
Thank you!
Hi David – Love your blog. We are visiting Santorini this May but are in a bit of a pickle. We have a young child (3 years old) and a limited budget (<$250 / night). We would like to stay close enough to the caldera to have a view from the room, but not so close as to constantly worry about where the kid is. I also understand that most of the hotels near the caldera won't even allow any young children to stay. Can you please make a recommendation as to potential good hotels to stay at the top of our budget? Thanks.
El Greco is a short walk outside of Fira. It is on the opposite side of the road from the caldera and has lots of space and nice pools for kids. It should have comfortable rooms for your budget.
I have a question – I am traveling with a friend and we both have 2 children both over 7. We were thinking of doing a cruise to include Greece and Turkey this summer – would you suggest otherwise?
It looks like Naxos is kid friendly and not sure that is one visited on the cruise.
We are traveling from San Francisco airport so trying to see a good bit but keep costs reasonable.
Any suggestions would be great!
Thanks,
Glenda Grant
Cruises are not a good way to see the Greek Islands. You don’t get long on each island. When you do visit you’re in a pack of tourists from the cruise ship. You don’t (usually) stay on the island for the night – the towns and villages really come alive at night and by then the cruise passengers are long gone. The food in Greece (and Turkey) is one of the highlights of a visit but when you’re on a cruise you’ll be eating half or more of your meals on the ship (and the food will be average at best, and quite possibly terrible).
Naxos is a wonderful island, but you’re right, not a common cruise ship stop.
Hi David,
Great blog! We are getting married in Santorini in September and are looking for somewhere to stay with our baby who will be 1 years old by then. Can you recommend somewhere for us to stay (area/hotel etc) which is baby friendly and doesn’t have steep steps to get to?
Thanks :-)
Ariel
Aria Suites is great for families with babies. The hotel is on one level (suites surround a beautiful pool). Nice views but not right on the caldera and not many steps to access. There’s parking nearby (once again, without stairs to get in and out). Shops and restaurants are an easy 3 minute walk away.